The United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-Moon, is alarmed at the deterioration of the security situation and escalation of fighting in Southern Kordofan state, which has left thousands homeless, a statement from his spokesperson said on Saturday.

The statement called on all concerned parties to cease hostilities and provide full cooperation to United Nation Mission in Sudan and humanitarian agencies in addressing the needs of the affected civilians.

Ban also remains deeply concerned about the situation in Abyei and the fate of those affected by the conflict in the area, the statement added.

He also welcomed the forthcoming meetings in Addis Ababa of the parties to Sudan's Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) to address the situation in Abyei, South Kordofan and Blue Nile states, as well as other outstanding security issues under the CPA.